When I began my journey into the developing world in 2001, I quickly realized that the true essence of a country can only be understood from the ground up. This insight isn’t found on structured tours or at popular tourist locations; it’s acquired by strolling through neighborhood roads and engaging with the daily routines of residents.
In every city or country, I visit, I make it a point to navigate the local streets, in an attempt to find the authentic rhythm of life. Despite the common warnings from tour guides and the well-meaning advice about potential dangers, I believe these cautions are often exaggerated. The same warnings apply to my selected hometown of New York or certain regions of my home country, Germany.
Admittedly, I do not naturally blend into the crowds in Africa, Asia, or Latin America. However, this distinctiveness has often been a bridge rather than a barrier, making it easier to connect and engage in conversations. In my extensive travels, I can honestly say that my encounters have been overwhelmingly friendly and filled with curiosity. In all those encounters, I am the foreigner, the stranger, yet I have found ways to engage in conversations.
Just last week, after dining in Victoria Island, the affluent part of Lagos, I decided to walk the 4 kilometers back to my hotel. As I walked, I was passed by cars with police and security escorts, yet I also observed the vibrant street life. Food stands bustling with activity, groups of adolescents gathered around their mopeds, and a scene of Muslims praying on the street almost next to a church.
Passing by dozens of children and elders sleeping on the bridge in the picture which probably provides some safety due to the lack of escapes. I only had some brief chats about directions, impending rain showers, and the benefit of grilled chicken sold on the street.
These walks, these interactions, offer more than just a glimpse into the daily life of a city; they provide food for thought about the deeper societal challenges and the transformative changes that are needed. It is through these ground-level experiences that I gain a better understanding of the complexities and the potential for positive changes.
